- Lulua Asaad, Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice Officer at UNODC
- Selma Prodanovic, CEO and Founder of 1MillionStartups
- Vera Strobachova Budway, Senior Coordination Advisor, Gender Section, OSCE
- Helena Zimmerdahl, Deputy Head of Mission, Embassy of Sweden in Vienna


“What is a good/bad leader?” “How can we make men with closed mind listen to us?” “How can we overcome the challenges we are facing?”

She said, “the fact that you ladies are here shows that you are among the top 1% that cares about women’s empowerment” and encouraged the group to “follow your inner voice, and do the right thing!”

“Take risks; don’t be afraid. Step out of your comfort zone!”

“Even if you have chosen a path, if it does not make you feel comfortable, don’t be afraid to change this path.”

She then added that “the network that we have as women and with women is so important as we are essential in promoting each other” but that “Gender equality is a responsibility for everyone: boys, men, girls, and women.”In consequence of the round table, Froehler moderated a workshop during which the WEP Asia fellows came up with their own list of the most important elements for being a good woman leader.




- Let me be wrong in my way!
- Lower your expectations.
- Be vulnerable; Embrace yourself.
- Dare to delegate.
- Ask for help when needed.
- Make small steps and celebrate small successes.
- Change is not easy, but it was your choice.
- Amplify; Speak for yourself.
- Raise your voice even ignored or interrupted.
- Amplify the voice of another woman.
- Teach boys and men about gender equality.
- Share inspirational stories about other women in other communities.
- Read a book that inspires you.
- Share what you find inspiring.
- Find a mentor and a supporting system.
- Get out of your comfort zone.
© BKMC / Eugenie Berger